Frozen‘s Anna stands out as a unique character among Disney princesses, yet she has an intriguing distinction shared with another well-loved princess from 30 years ago. While the criteria for being an official Disney Princess remain somewhat ambiguous, the enchanting characters of Disney animated films often conform to a successful formula. Although Anna and her sister Elsa from Frozen are not part of the official roster, they embody many of the essential traits that define a Disney princess.
Directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, Frozen draws inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen’s 1844 tale, “The Snow Queen.” The story follows Anna, voiced by Kristen Bell, the spirited Princess of Arendelle, alongside her elder sister, Elsa, portrayed by Idina Menzel. Elsa inadvertently reveals her magical ice powers and retreats from the castle, prompting Anna to embark on a quest to locate her sister. Throughout her adventure, Anna encounters loyal friends and faces unexpected challenges, leading to poignant revelations. The immense critical acclaim and financial success of Frozen sparked a franchise and established Anna as a noteworthy figure in Disney history.
Frozen’s Anna & Pocahontas: The Unique Princesses with Two Love Interests
Anna & Pocahontas: Choices and Consequences
In 1995, Disney released Pocahontas, a film directed by Mike Gabriel and Eric Goldberg, inspired by the historical figure’s life and the arrival of English settlers. In the film, Pocahontas, daughter of Chief Powhatan, is initially expected to marry the serious warrior, Kocoum. However, her life takes a turn when she meets Captain John Smith, leading to a romance that ignites conflict between her Native American tribe and the English settlers, represented by the ambitious Governor Ratcliffe.
Similar to Pocahontas, Anna also finds herself torn between two love interests in Frozen. At the outset, she quickly becomes engaged to Prince Hans during Elsa’s coronation but later encounters Kristoff, a compassionate iceman. Unlike Pocahontas, whose love for John Smith represents a complex relationship, Anna’s brief infatuation with Hans takes a dark turn when he reveals his villainous nature. Ultimately, Anna chooses Kristoff, leading to a joyous partnership, while Pocahontas opts to remain with her tribe, as John Smith departs to convalesce in England. By the conclusion of Frozen 2, Anna ascends to the throne of Arendelle following Elsa’s abdication.
Merida, Moana, & Raya: Icons Without a Love Interest
Breaking the Mold: A Shift in Disney Princess Narratives
Traditionally, every Disney Princess has been paired with at least one love interest. However, three notable princesses—Merida from Brave, Moana from Moana, and Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon—defy this pattern. Merida’s story centers on familial bonds and personal independence rather than romance. Following in her footsteps, Moana embarks on her own heroic quest, emphasizing the importance of family and heritage. Meanwhile, Raya’s narrative also prioritizes family over romantic connections.
Additionally, it is essential to mention that Elsa from Frozen, although initially a princess, does not engage in any romantic subplot throughout the film. As the evolving landscape of animated storytelling unfolds, it raises questions about whether the conventions for Disney princesses will evolve further. Currently, Anna and Pocahontas maintain a unique bond in their shared experiences, while Princesses like Merida, Moana, and Raya represent a new wave that challenges traditional storytelling norms.
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